He has overseen restructures to the force saving £42 million, brought about by UK Government cuts to the policing budget.

His reign was recently praised by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary. During an 18-month period, Gwent Police went from “Requiring Improvement” across the board to being rated as “Good” overall.

During his career, he has planned and commanded some of the most high profile events in the UK including the NATO Summit in 2014, two FA Cup and Carling Cup finals, the Ryder Cup in Newport in 2010, various rugby internationals, international cricket and world championship boxing events.

He was awarded the Queens Police Medal in the 2014 Birthday Honours list.

Thanking the Chief Constable for his positive contribution to policing, Gwent PCC Jeff Cuthbert, said: “It is with regret that I announce that I have received notice of the intention to retire from the Chief Constable of Gwent Police, Jeff Farrar.

“His contribution to policing and wellbeing within Gwent has been outstanding and he has served Gwent Police and the people of Gwent with great distinction during his time of service. He has done a fantastic job and has shown that he is a strong leader who has the support of officers, staff as well as our partners in the community.”

He added: “He will be a very hard act to follow and I am confident that he will continue to play a leading role in public life, but in a different capacity. I want to thank him for the support and encouragement he has provided me with during this first year of my tenure. I am grateful that he has given me sufficient notice which will enable me to look for a suitable successor in a timely manner.”

CH Con Farrar, said: “I have been very extremely privileged to have served as the Chief Constable of Gwent for the last four years and would like to thank the current Police and Crime Commissioner, Jeff Cuthbert, and the former Police and Crime Commissioner, Ian Johnston, for their advice and support whilst I have been in the role.

“The last four years have presented countless challenges, but I am confident that my successor will inherit a more effective and efficient force.

“I have been proud to serve in the police for the last 35 years and will miss many friends and colleagues inside and outside the service, but always remain immensely proud of all those people that service the communities here and across the country every day.”